A New High-Tech Tool for Cell Phone Junkies

I’ve been working in a technology public relations firm here in New York for more than 12 years now. It’s a great job … never boring. The only major downside is that all my non-tech-savvy, friends and relatives call me for advice whenever they’re faced with any major technology purchase. So I was thrilled to discover BillShrink, a new free service on the web that compares your current cell-phone plan to those offered by other wireless carriers and shows you the plans with the best call quality, at the lowest cost, based on your own personal usage needs. It’s still a little buggy, but BillShrink could be an invaluable tech tool that works for everyone who hates the complications that come with choosing a mobile plan.

(For the record, I currently use Verizon Wireless, but BillShrink says I could save $426 annually with T-Mobile. I’m definitely going to have to check that out!)

Microsoft + Yahoo: Another Perspective

There’s been lots of coverage in the mainstream media about Microsoft’s proposed acquisition of Yahoo. Those in favor say that the merger could strengthen both companies and create more shareholder value than each company could create on its own. Those against it say that Microsoft’s offer substantially underestimates Yahoo’s worth.

If you believe that the success of any merger depends to a significant extent on the willingness of employees to embrace it, then Microsoft has some problems ahead of it.

On his “Tech Your Universe” blog, Yahoo employee Nick writes, “I estimate that 1 in 10 Yahoos will refuse to work for Microsoft.” After giving three reasons why the idea of working for Microsoft is “awful,” Nick goes on to say, “I’d be embarrassed to admit that I worked for Microsoft, and having it on my resume would be detrimental to my career.”

Apparently he’s not alone in his sentiments.

This is a public relations battle that is likely to be fought in the boardroom, the courtroom and the vastness of cyberspace.